ANC STATEMENT ON THE DISCHARGING OF COMRADE JACKSON MTHEMBU FROM HOSPITAL

Comrade Jackson Mthembu, a Member of the ANC NEC and NWC was discharged this morning from the Emalahleni Private hospital following being shot during a robbery in Witbank ten days ago (Sunday 19 October 2014). In the ten days of his admission at the hospital he had spent a total of seven days in the Intensive Care Unit where he had undergone numerous tests, scans, treatment and medical observation.

As the ANC we are relieved with progress he has made given that the bullet that struck pierced his lung and broke two ribs before exiting through his back. His internal injuries caused internal bleeding and formation of blood clot near his left shoulder. He had had a difficulty breathing due to the impact on his lungs.

His treatment will continue as a day patient to ensure full recovery as a result of being laid off from work by the doctors until the end of November. We want to thank South Africans for their support and concerns expressed on the unfortunate incident that was almost fatal. We also want to thank the medical team at the hospital who worked tirelessly to save Mthembu's life. We equally thank the South African Police Services for protecting Mthembu whilst he was in hospital.

Statement issued by Zizi Kodwa, ANC national spokesperson, October 29 2014

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